News & Info

What is Orienteering?

What is Orienteering?

Orienteering originated in Sweden in the early 1900’s as a military exercise and came to the U.S. in the 1940’s. In 1971 it became officially organized in this country when Orienteering USA  (previously U.S. Orienteering Federation) was founded. The U.S. Orienteering team regularly participates in international competitions, but orienteering is primarily a recreational activity for the weekend athlete, the fitness hiker, and the puzzle junkie.

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What To Expect

What To Expect

☐ Compass with clear baseplate ☐ Waiver form (if applicable) ☐ Lanyard for Compass ☐ Whistle ☐ Water ☐ Snacks ☐ Weather appropriate clothing Before The Event Orienteering is a fun outdoor sport and for the enjoyment of everyone participating in club-sponsored events –...

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Explaining the Course Color Code

Explaining the Course Color Code

The courses are named by color using a scheme established by the U.S. Orienteering Federation.   Generally, longer courses involve more challenges and more difficult off-trail navigation. As a courtesy to others on the course - please limit your group per map to the...

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How to Choose the Correct Course

Following is a description of orienteering course levels, and the skills required to do them.   This is to help you decide which course is right for you.   Above all, remember that orienteering should be fun.   Choose the course that challenges your current skill...

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Orienteering Terms

Orienteering Terms

This is a partial list of Orienteering terms. For a full list of useful terms, please visit Orienteering USA's Orienteering Lingo page. Aiming Off – to deliberately aim to one side of a control or feature so that you know which way to turn upon hitting the feature...

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Beginners’ Instruction

Beginners’ Instruction

A short orientation session is usually available. This session will give you a few quick pointers on reading a map and doing an orienteering course so you can do your first course. It is a good place to ask a lot of questions. Make sure you review other General Info...

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Registration

Registration

Registration is conducted exclusively online. No manual paperwork or walk-ups are permitted for an event. Participants fill-out an online form for personal information (including indications of fingerstick ownership, group involvement, contact information, etc.)....

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Orienteering – The Sport of a Lifetime

Orienteering – The Sport of a Lifetime

Orienteering is the sport of navigation with map and compass. It’s easy to learn , but always challenging. The object is to run, walk, ski, or mountain bike to a series of points shown on the map, choosing routes–both on and off trail–that will help you find all the...

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Family Fun

Family Fun

Orienteering is a fun activity for the whole family, including your four-legged friends! Watch two videos about orienteering.

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